You simply can’t even think of kayaking without paddles. Kayaks and paddles are inseparable; a match made in heaven. Paddles do help you to get from point A to Point B. They help you keep the kayak straight, maneuver it properly and to maintain speed whenever it is required.
Now, not all paddles are the same. Some are designed for whitewater kayaking while some are specifically designed for fishing.
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Best 8 Kayak Paddles
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If you are finding it incredibly complex to find the best kayak paddle for your next fishing trip, you don’t have to waste any more time searching the web and reading tons of reviews to identify the best kayak paddle for this specific need. At Kayak Manual, we have reviewed the most popular kayak paddles that are specifically designed for a fishing trip –
1. Pelican Aluminum Kayak Paddles
Pelican Aluminum Kayak Paddles are available for the cheap. To improve its performance and to extend its lifespan, anodized aluminum is used in this kayak paddle. To boost its resistance further, Polypropylene has mainly been used in the making of this blade. Since the blades are made from Aluminum, they are wallet-friendly and can stand the test of time.
Contrary to what most people believe, these Pelican Aluminum Kayak Paddles offer a good grip and are comfortable to hold for long hours. The angle of these Pelican Aluminum Kayak Paddles can be adjusted at will and these paddles offer a superior level of control and stability against all odds.
2. Intex Dual Purpose Kayak Paddle
Intex Dual Purpose Kayak Paddle is a heavy-duty kayak paddle that promises to offers spectacular performance against all odds. You can use both the paddles together at the same time by using a nifty device like – Coupler. Made from aluminum, these Intex Dual Purpose Kayak Paddles are heavy-built and are extremely lightweight. Easy to transport, Intex Dual Purpose Kayak Paddles can be broken down into smaller pieces when not in use.
3. Oceanbroad Kayak Paddle
The blade of this Oceanbroad Kayak Paddle is made from fiberglass-reinforced PP and the shaft is made from aluminum alloy. Incredibly strong, Oceanbroad Kayak Paddle can be folded down when not in use. It has got two detachable sections and that means, it will not eat up much space.
Ideal for beginners and intermediate kayakers, Oceanbroad Kayak Paddle offers great grip and it will not cause any blistering whatsoever. The shaft is coated with PE tube which will keep your hands protected from the biting cold during the wintery months. Oceanbroad Kayak Paddle comes fitted with bungee paddle leash so that you can get it attached securely to the kayak. You have got three 3 locking positions to choose from based on your preferences.
4. SeaSense Kayak Paddle
SeaSense Kayak Paddle is easy to store as it flaunts a cool two-piece construction. The inclusion of a highly adjustable grip guard makes it super comfortable to hold. To further increase stability, SeaSense Kayak Paddle has got three unique locking positions. A support ridge is added in it to increase its strength. Since this angler kayak paddle floats on the water, the chance of losing it is very slim.
SeaSense Kayak Paddle is a nice stiff fishing paddle which is just perfect for the beginners. It does not weigh that much and that means, you will hardly feel any discomfort while with it for long hours. It has a nice balance and convenient to hold. SeaSense Kayak Paddle can be assembled and disassembled in a matter of few minutes.
The shaft is Made from fiberglass whereas the blade of this paddle is made from nylon. This combination has allowed it to keep the weight under check. It is super light and the blade is made from lightweight polypropylene.
By and large, this is a nice paddle designed particularly for the anglers.
5. Bending Branches Angler Classic Kayak Paddle
Bending Branches Angler Classic Kayak Paddle helps to channel power to the blades without putting too much pressure on your shoulders. Its blades are made from carbon-reinforced nylon and this premium material has endowed it with an incredible level of strength and durability.
Bending Branches Angler Classic Kayak Paddle looks classy and stylish. This kayak fishing paddle is ideal for beginners as it allows you to make flutter-free stroke without much fuss. It also allows you to pull through the water smoothly. What else you can expect from a kayak fishing paddle?
Easy to store, Bending Branches Angler Classic Kayak Paddle can be broken down into two parts. It also got a highly adjustable 3-hole snap-button ferrule. Bending Branches Angler Classic Kayak Paddle does not make you feel tired that easily as it is extremely lightweight and lasts really long. a hook-retrieval notch is included in the design to make it super easy to retrieve the paddle in case of some mishap.
6. Carlisle Magic Mystic Poly Kayak Paddle
Carlisle Magic Mystic Poly Kayak Paddle consists of fiberglass blades and aluminum shaft. You can use it both on whitewater and flatwater and that too without facing a slight inconvenience. Designed specifically to increase efficiency, fiberglass-reinforced polypropylene blades look stunning. These blades offer a decent level of performance.
If you wish to minimize wrist flex while making forward strokes, you can make good use of the bend on the aluminum shaft. The shaft is asymmetrical in nature and is available in sunrise color. You can expect reliable performance from this Carlisle Magic Mystic Poly Kayak Paddle.
7. Bending Branches Angler Ace II Kayak Paddle
If you have a penchant for making micro-adjustments in all your kayaking accessories, you should settle for this Bending Branches Angler Ace II Kayak Paddle. It is an extremely adjustable kayak paddle that allows paddlers to propel forward with ease and elan. The shaft is made from durable and ultralight carbon fiber whereas the blades are made from carbon-reinforced nylon.
Bending Branches Angler Ace II Kayak Paddle has got a hook retrieval system that allows you to retrieve the paddle if you somehow lose it while catching fish.
8. Bending Branches Angler Pro Fiberglass Kayak Paddle
Bending Branches Angler Pro Fiberglass Kayak Paddle offers decent level performance under extreme conditions. Be it kayaking on lakes or rivers, Bending Branches Angler Pro Fiberglass Kayak Paddle can help you stay true to your course without making any deviation from your path. It is extremely lightweight and does not tire you out even if you paddle for hours.
The blades of this fishing kayak paddle are a bit oversized. The blades are made from fiberglass that adds to their strength and durability. The handle is made from carbon fiber that helps you conserve your energy. The oval-shaped shaft offers an easy grip and is also comfortable to hold.
Different Parts of a
Kayak Paddle
Blade
A kayak paddle consists of two blades. These blades allow the kayaker to propel the kayak forward by utilizing its large surface area. Blades can broadly be categorized into these three types –
Dihedral Blade
At the center of a Dihedral Blade is a ribbed separation that separates it from other types of blades that are available in the market. Ribbed separation is what allows a natural flow of water and thus allowing paddlers to paddle without straining their muscles.
Symmetrical Blade
Both sides of Symmetrical blades have the same shape and which is why they are called symmetrical blades in the first place. Symmetrical blades are ideal for beginners as they are easy to handle. You don’t have to put a lot of effort while paddling which is definitely good. symmetrical blades are widely used by whitewater paddlers.
Asymmetrical Blade
In the case of Asymmetrical Blades, the one blade will have a different shape than the other. If you are looking for more power per paddle stroke or want to have greater control over the kayak’s movement, you need to opt for Asymmetrical Blades. Asymmetrical Blades gets deeper into the water and thereby allowing the paddlers to gain more power. Asymmetrical Blades are chiefly used by touring kayakers.
Shaft
The stick that connects the blades of a paddle is known as Shaft.
Ferrule
Ferrule is basically a joint that holds together multiple parts of a kayak paddle. Ferrule often looks like a ring and usually it is made from metal.
Angler Kayak Paddle
Buying Guide
There are a number of factors that you need to carefully consider while selecting the right kayak fishing paddle for your next kayaking escapade. Now, thankfully you would not have to read a 1000 pages long manual to figure out the best kayak fishing paddle. Just go through these guidelines carefully curated by us in order to make the right decision –
Paddle Length
The height of the paddler, seating position and the width of the boat play a pivotal role in determining the length of the paddle. A long paddle is needed if your kayak is large and wide. If you are a tall and lanky guy like me, you should always opt for longer paddles. 210 cm long paddle is ideal for a 23 inches wide kayak whereas a 240-cm long paddle is perfect for a 32 inches wide kayak.
However, the length of the paddle can directly impact the efficiency of the stroke. Longer paddles tend to lessen the impact of strokes. However, if you go for a shorter paddle, chances are quite high that your hand might hit by the shaft of the paddle while paddling.
Alignment of Blades
Most kayak blades either have matched alignment or feathered alignment.
- Matched aligned blades are ideal for fishing kayaks but they are not great if you are planning to paddle for long hours. However, matched aligned blades don’t do much to reduce the wind resistance.
- Feathered aligned blades are known for their ability to cut down significantly on the wind resistance.
Blade Material
The blade of a paddle can be made from diverse materials like – fiberglass plastic, nylon plastic, polymer, etc. Each material has its share of advantages and disadvantages so to speak.
Fiberglass Blades
Fiberglass blades do come with a high price tag but they are known for their durability and offer a decent level of performance. Compared to nylon paddle blades, they can easily hold up a lot of abuse easily.
Plastic Paddles
Plastic paddles don’t come with a hefty price tag but they can easily get damaged. Plastic paddles are, in most cases, UV resistant and that means, over time, they will get damaged. Stroke efficiency also gets severely affected due to the fact that these plastic paddles are extremely pliant by nature.
Carbon Fiber Paddle
Stiff and lightweight, carbon fiber paddle is the best choice for anglers. They are also available for the cheap and they help to transfer energy with each stroke.
Shaft Design
You might face slight discomfort while in your arm joints and shoulder while kayaking and this is quite normal. But you can reduce this discomfort to some extent by selecting the right shaft. Paddle Shafts are usually available in two variants – bent and straight.
You will have to use both hands in order to use straight shafts. The best thing about these straight shafts is that some of them have got a modular structure. That means, you can easily break them down to smaller parts and that will definitely solve the storage issue. The diameter of the shaft should ensure a comfortable grip. If the diameter of the shaft is too large, you might find it tough to get a proper grip on it. If you are not sure about the diameter, just make sure the index finger is touching the thumb and you will be just fine.
Bent shafts usually have an ergonomic design that adds to the comfort level. If you wish to add more power to your strokes, you need to opt for a bent shaft. What is remarkable about this bent shaft is that it does not slide away from its position when you are not holding it. So, that means, you don’t necessarily have to invest in a kayak paddle holder. While fishing you can use one hand to hold it and use the other hand to catch fish.
Shaft Material
The carbon shaft is best suited for this specific purpose. Carbon shafts are strong, lightweight and they also last very wrong. Ideally, you should use a fiberglass paddle with a carbon shaft to get the best result. Now, you might be wondering what is wrong in having an aluminum shaft right?
Well, technically, there is not much difference between a carbon shaft and an aluminum shaft because both of these two materials are known for being cost-efficient, lightweight and durable but the only problem with aluminum is that it gets super-hot when exposed to sunlight. During winter, aluminum can get very cold so to be on the safe side, you need to put your trust on carbon shaft.
Kayak Paddle FAQ
Below mentioned are some of the FAQs in relation to Kayak Paddle.
